Things to know about wooden windows
Timber windows have been used for centuries in a variety of styles and building designs, including colonial bay and double hung windows. Aesthetically, timber windows are attractive and practical. If they are properly maintained, they will last a lifetime.
They are a ‘natural product’ and are usually made of western red cedar, meranti or hardwood. Timber windows are treated to prevent contact with water, dust, dirt, sunlight and some insects.
When well sealed and double-glazed, timber windows can improve the warmth of your home, and are an excellent energy saver in that they control both heat loss and gain. They can also offer acoustic benefits, reducing the amount of noise between the windows and the outside.
Some types of timber are more durable than others and are best used for external purposes, while others are best suited for internal windows. Your timber window manufacturer or supplier will assist you in designing your windows and selecting the type of timber to best suit your window requirements.
Energy Saving
It is now possible to install energy efficient windows in a wide range of designs and sizes that will provide maximum performance, irrespective of site positioning. By considering the placement of the windows in your home or business premises, you will be able to increase the use of natural light and reduce your energy costs.
New glass technology, which can provide a low emissive film applied to a double-glazing unit, will not only dramatically reduce ultra violet rays but also keep the warmth inside or the summer heat out.
Using double-glazing, timber windows have thermal and acoustic benefits. They will help control the loss or gain of warm or cool air, and reduce noise levels. Consider adding insulation material between the window and the wall at the time of installation.
The energy rating of a window is an important factor. Windows are given an energy rating, similar to the ‘star’ rating used by the kitchen appliances industry. Not only does this allow you savings on your energy bills, but also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
How is the window built?
Timber windows are a ‘natural product’ and are usually made of western red cedar, meranti or hardwood, and may be treated to prevent contact with water, dust, dirt, sunlight and some insects.
Standard designs and sizes can be used to construct timber windows or they can be custom made according to your requirements. An architect or builder will often develop the design of the house or building, and then a manufacturer will construct the windows. Some manufacturers can also design windows and doors to suit your needs. Examples of popular window designs include colonial bay and double hung windows.
Fully seasoned timber must be used in the construction of windows, which ensures the longevity, and reliability of the windows. The joinery work used in the construction of your windows should be perfect. That is, the joints should be tight fitting to ensure the windows are weatherproof and not effected by moisture. Quality timber windows will be guaranteed. Ask the manufacturer, supplier, or builder for information on warranties.
How is the window Installed?
The best windows will never do their job properly, if they are not correctly installed. All windows should be positioned true, plumb and squarely in an opening and must have frame packing to ensure this position is maintained. They should be attached to the adjacent wall to ensure no load, or weight, is bared by the window.
Flashing should be attached between the windows and wall to seal against water and wind and to ensure that any water penetration has a path of exit from the wall. To ensure timber windows are energy efficient and offer acoustic benefits, they must have a total sealing around their perimeters to avoid air infiltration or air loss.
Installers of windows must follow set building regulations. If you are installing them yourself, the manufacturer or suppler should provide detailed installation instructions and be available for after-sales service in the event of any problems. When in doubt on how to correctly install a window, use a professional and get it right the first time.
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